Jurgen Melzer has advanced to the second round of the Madrid Masters after a 3-6 7-6 6-4 victory over Spaniard Feliciano Lopez.
It was Melzer who started the match the stronger and he secured an early break to move 2-1 ahead in the opening set.
Lopez responded, however, to move back on serve and eventually broke his opponent at 4-3, allowing him to serve for the opening set.
The second set was a much more even contest, with Melzer displaying his impressive forehand, while Lopez's ability to get around the court was a particular highlight.
It remained on serve until 6-6, and it was Melzer who moved level at 1-1 in the match as he won a pulsating tie-break 8-6.
The final set was an equally tight encounter, but Melzer broke his Spanish opponent at 3-3, allowing him to remain on serve to take the final set 6-4.
Matt Law
